Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Maybe someone will have some advice! I the pregnant owner of an 8 year old female green iguana. My fiance is concerned about salmonella and an infant. Unfortunately, all the research I have done only proves him right.

I need to give her away but am very concerned about finding the right home for her, I have had her since she was less than 6 inches, snout to tail!

ideas anyone?

I am also pregnant, 9 months. My igs are 12 yrs old and the thought of giving them away would devestate me.

This may help:

http://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancyhealth/pets.html

What about pregnancy and your exotic reptile or amphibian?
Lizards, iguanas, turtles, frogs, snakes and other reptiles or amphibians make for intriguing pets, but there is a risk to you and your developing baby. Exposure to the feces of these pets, direct or indirect, can result in the transmission of the salmonella bacteria which can adversely affect your pregnancy.

The risk of transmission of the salmonella bacteria is an important concern for children under the age of five as well. Their immune systems are still developing and exposure to reptile feces puts the child's health at risk. Unfortunately, the safest course of action is to have a reptilian or amphibian pet removed from the house until your child reaches his fifth birthday.

If you decide to keep your pet, here are some helpful hints to create a safer environment for you and your new baby:

Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water following any handling of a reptile, amphibian or its cage
Do NOT allow reptiles or amphibians in the kitchen, on the counter, or near any other food preparation area
Do NOT use the kitchen sink to give the reptile a bath or to clean the cage. Ideally you should clean the cage outdoors; however, if you use the bathtub, make sure you disinfect it with bleach
Do NOT allow a young child to handle the reptile, amphibian or to play with the cage
Do NOT let the reptile roam around the house